Our Score: 92/100
The Ultimate Review: Stone Brewing Company’s Ruination Double IPA 2.0
The Resurgence of a Hoppy Classic
In the ever-evolving world of craft beer, few offerings turn heads like a well-crafted double IPA. Stone Brewing Company’s Ruination Double IPA 2.0 does exactly that—grabs your attention and refuses to let go. But what makes this brew stand out in the crowded market of hop-heavy libations? Let’s dive into the world of citrus, pine, and tropical notes that this beer so artfully balances.
Aromas to Swoon Over
Aroma is the first encounter, the initial handshake of a beer, and with Ruination 2.0, that handshake is firm and memorable. Upon first sniff, you’re greeted with a vibrant bouquet of lemon and red grapefruit. The moment is akin to peeling a citrus fruit; that spritz of zest fills the air, invigorating the senses. As it warms, a procession of pineapple joins, not overwhelming but politely making its presence known. Perhaps unexpectedly, a savory depth wades in, characterized by notes of bitter orange, green onion, garlic, and a drizzle of honey—all adding to the juicy complexity that this beer so boastfully presents.
Taste the Hoppy Revolution
Moving on, the flavor is where Ruination 2.0 truly leaves its mark. Imagine a crescendo of hoppy bitterness, piney and resinous, it’s as if walking through a coniferous forest, each breath deeply entrenched in nature’s essence. The bitterness is assertive, yet through the forest path, there’s comfort in the familiar—a biscuity malt that cradles the palate, rounding out the finish and providing balance to what could otherwise be an overly boisterous hop profile. Nuances of bitter orange peel merge with earthy undertones, while a sweet thread of caramel weaves through, adding a layer of complexity to the tasting experience. Every sip finishes strong, leaving a lingering bitterness that is somehow both bracing and inviting.
The Importance of Serving Temperature
Interestingly, the beer presents a pivotal piece of advice: temperature matters. In its icy state, the intricate dance of flavors is more of a stomp—forceful and less nuance. Yet, as it warms, the full spectrum of its hop character emerges like dawn’s light. Tropical fruitiness begins to shine through, offering a counterpoint to the assertive hop bitterness. It’s not merely a question of patience, but of perfect timing, where every degree of warmth draws out subtler notes, allowing for a taste experience that is enticing and explorative.
The Hops Enigma
What’s particularly intriguing about this brew is its hop profile. It’s a touch murky, and here, murky doesn’t equivocate to a flaw, but rather a mystery to unravel with each sip. The hop character doesn’t hit you over the head; instead, it leans in close, whispers its complexity, and leaves you guessing. Each taste is a clue, a step closer to understanding the essence of this hop-forward creation. It’s not just a beer; it’s a quest in every glass.
The Final Verdict
In summary, Ruination Double IPA 2.0 is nothing short of a hop enthusiast’s dream. A beer that is at once familiar yet challenging, comforting yet adventurous. Deserving of its 92/100 score, it aligns with the upper echelons of its style. It’s a bold brew, rich in history, flavor, and character. This is more than just a beer—it’s a conversation starter, a game-changer, a bearer of the torch in the kingdom of hops.
The next time you find yourself in the company of this storied double IPA, seize the opportunity to truly savor it. Allow it to warm, breathe, and speak to you through its symphony of aromas and flavors. Stone Brewing’s Ruination Double IPA 2.0 isn’t just a revival of the first iteration; it’s an evolution—a beer that honed its strengths and emerged into something greater. A testament to the craft, it’s a beverage that demands your attention, your contemplation, and ultimately, your enjoyment.
Cheers to the endless quest for the perfect pint, and the joys discovered along the way. Stone Brewing Company, take a bow; Ruination Double IPA 2.0 is indeed a masterclass in hoppy magnificence
This beer review was a delightful deep dive into the craft beer world, especially with the exquisite detailing of Stone Brewing’s Ruination IPA 2.0. The expertise and enthusiasm in breaking down this iconic IPA make it a must-read for beer lovers everywhere.